OTHER PROJECTS

Sharing the caring

It's not just Kiwi who benefit from the Trust's work Although the Kiwi programme is its most high profile activity, there are plenty of other ways the Trust looks after the land and wildlife.

Whio (blue duck)

The Trust undertakes several restoration and protection efforts at Pohokura, in the Central North Island. A nationally significant population of 18 pairs and 19 single Whio has been surveyed there. By controlling stoat numbers the Trust hopes to save the Pohokura Whio and grow the population to the point where they start repopulating adjoining areas.

Endangered plant species

Both the Maungataniwha and Pohokura sites are home to several species of endangered plant, including Pittosporum turneri, kaka beak and mistletoe. Extensive restoration plans include pest control, physical protection and propagating new plants.

Archaeological and paleontological finds

The Trust's land has many sites of archaeological interest, including Moa hunter's cave shelters and pa sites. Maungataniwha in particular is believed to have once been an important area for Maori. Maungataniwha is rich in fossils and a walk down the river can turn up many rocks with fossilised shells. Investigations by palaeontologists have found that the Maungataniwha area was once inhabited by much larger creatures: fossilised bones believed to be from a plesiosaur have been found near the Mangahouanga stream.

Forest restoration

It's not just the animals that the Trust is restoring to their rightful place. Much of the land was previously Pine plantations. Bringing back the native forest is an ongoing and costly fight - both in terms of time and money. As well as replanting the properties the team works painstakingly to remove wild pine seedlings which grow quickly and can smother the regenerating native bush.

Pest control

Control of possums, stoats, ferrets, rats, goats and other introduced animals is an essential part of the Trust's work. All represent a significant threat to our endangered species. Extensive and effective pest-control measures have reaped rewards, increasing numbers of endangered plants and animals.

The future

The Trust is working with conservation groups and universities on many new projects, including research and the possibility of restoring some locally-extinct native animals. To find out more about the work of the Forest Lifeforce Restoration Trust please visit www.forestlifeforce.org.nz